Edgemont City Park
Covered Bridge Project

Update May 16, 2011
Almost Finished!

“Bridging Our Past to the Future”

“Never doubt what a small group of dedicated people can change, indeed, they are the only ones who bring about change,” a quote attributed to Margaret Mead is apropos when discussing a group of Edgemont area folks who have decided that Edgemont needs its island bridge back.

The only public covered bridge in the Northern Great Plains to be located in Edgemont is expected to enhance other economic development efforts as well as attract tourists to the downtown, museum and park area. The bridge will be 120’ long, 9’ wide and 8’ high clear span made of Douglas Fir. And the bridge will be constructed using no taxpayers money.

Early photos of Edgemont often show the arched bridge between the park and the island. This bridge was built in the 1890’s. It fell into disrepair many years later and was removed.

In 1960 a new bridge was built but it too fell victim to the hands of time and has been removed many years hence. Still there are folks in Edgemont who remember fishing from this bridge in their younger days.

A new, covered bridge is being planned and the fundraising efforts have begun.

An Amish builder from Ashland, Montana named Moses Borntreger has been contracted to build the bridge. The timbers will be shipped to Edgemont and then re-assembled. Engineering for the structure has begun through the volunteer services of Edgemont native Kris Barker. Cobblestone pavers will lead up to the bridge with names of individuals and businesses who have made significant contributions. The interior of the bridge will also be adorned with regional ranchers’ livestock brands.

May 8, 2011
Crane hoists the sides of the bridge.

Get Involved!

Covered bridges have a life span of 80 to 100 years when compared to uncovered wooden bridges which have a life span of 10 to 15 years! You can be a part of this new landmark for Edgemont.

Here are some ways you can help.

Purchase an engraved cobblestone paver.(pre-order, up to 25 characters)
Pavers are $75 each

Purchase branding rights. Engrave your livestock brand on the completed bridge.(there will be a directory listing of ranch or individual names at the bridge)
Brands are $100 each

Pre-order your lettering to be engraved inside the bridge in 2" letters.
Engraving $10 per letter